MS HB1178

Revises the definition of telemedicine to mean the delivery of health care services such as diagnosis, consultation, or treatment by a physician at a location other than the patient through interactive audio, video, or other electronic media.

Establishes that the practice of medicine via telemedicine is deemed to occur at the patient's location and requires physicians to obtain informed consent, document patient clinical history, and maintain medical records at the same standard as traditional face-to-face services.

Requires telemedicine service providers to offer multiple communication methods beyond telephone only, charge the same cost regardless of communication method used, and employ only Mississippi-licensed physicians to provide services in the state.

Permits physicians to prescribe medications via telemedicine at their discretion, except controlled substances must comply with Section 41-29-137 and 21 USC Section 802(54)(A).

Authorizes the State Board of Health as the sole state agency to regulate telemedicine and promulgate rules and regulations, with the State Board of Medical Licensure empowered to discipline physicians who violate telemedicine provisions; effective July 1, 2016.